Alocasia sanderiana, Alocasia amazonica

USDA Plant Hardiness Zone Map

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Alocasia sanderiana (Kris plant) is low-growing plant, native to the Philippines and will reach a height of about 2ft. A beautiful plant with flat, V-shaped leaves, deeply scalloped along the margins. The color is shiny, jet-black, with bold white veining. An excellent species for interior, landscape or terrarium use. This plant can be grown in either partial or full shade and does best in a bog or aquatic environment. It is also suitable for planting in pots and to be used as an ornamental foliage. This plant should be grown in USDA zone 10-11.

When caring for Alocasia sanderiana, it is important to provide it with warm and humid conditions as well as an abundance of water while it is growing. During the fall months, the water requirements can be reduced and the soil should only be moistened occasionally. Great care should also be taken when planting rhizomes - the top of the rhizome should be planted above the soil line or the leaves may begin to decay. For cold regions, it is best to keep this plant in a pot so that it can be brought inside during cold weather.

Alsobia dianthiflora, Episcia dianthiflora

Alternanthera dentata

This low-growing, mound-forming evergreen groundcover is native to tropical regions from the West Indies to Brazil. Alternanthera dentata or Joseph's Coat features ornamental foliage displays of a multitude of colors such as purple, burgundy, red, pink, orange, yellow and green on small plants 2-5 ft tall. Not only does this plant add an eye-catching contrast to gardens, but it also needs minimal care and maintenance.

Full sun is recommended for Alternanthera dentata to maximize its colorful foliage and blossom white or off-white flowers. Semi-shade is also acceptable, but try to avoid full shade. Water regularly, but not in excess to prevent waterlogging and ensure that the soil doesn't completely dry out.

Zones 10-11 USDA are ideal for growing Alternanthera dentata, but those living in cooler climates can still enjoy this plant with a few extra steps. Pot your Alternanthera dentata in a pot that can be moved indoors during a frost. Mature cold-hardy at least to 30s F for a short time, this beautiful tropical plant is also salt tolerant and makes for a great choice for seaside gardens.

With its stunning, long season of color and low-maintenance requirements, Alternanthera dentata or Joseph's Coat is a fantastic choice for gardens, landscapes and container plantings.

Alternanthera ficoidea

Beautiful Variegated pink leaves. Takes both sun or shade, perfect accent plant that attracts attention of everyone who's passing by.

Alternanthera Snow Ball

An evergreen groundcover plant native to the West Indies, Alternanthera Snow Ball (Alternanthera Snow Ball) is a low-growing ornamental foliage that is sure to add character and beauty to your garden. This delightful plant only reaches a maximum height of 2 feet, but its amazing coloration and texture are more than enough to keep it in the sights of onlookers.

Alternanthera Snow Ball excels in full sun or shade, and requires regular watering. If planting in shade, keep in mind that the plant's striking variegation might be less noticeable than in brighter conditions. The plant's unique beauty also makes it a great choice for adding texture and contrast to container gardens, which can easily be moved around the yard and changed seasonally.

As with many ornamental foliage, Alternanthera Snow Ball makes a great seaside or salt-tolerant plant, perfect for areas with frequent ocean sprays or wind-borne salt. The plant is cold hardy in USDA Zones 9-11. In particularly cold regions, the plant will need to be grown in a container or pot and brought indoors during winter.

Not only is Alternanthera Snow Ball easy to care for, but it can even tolerate some neglect. Its impressive amount of resilience and versatility make it a great choice for both beginner and expert gardeners who are looking to add some life and color to their patches.